China Imperial Voyage
- Asia
- China
Best of China & Yangtze River Cruise 2026 | China Imperial Voyage
Tour Code: CN4013C
Overview
China Imperial Voyage is a thoughtfully designed experience that brings together the country’s most iconic cultural landmarks with the serene beauty of the Yangtze River. From the historic grandeur of Beijing and the imperial legacy of Xi’an to the dynamic energy of Shanghai, each destination reveals a different layer of China’s identity.
The journey is complemented by a multi-day Yangtze River cruise, offering a slower, more contemplative perspective of the country’s landscapes. Sail through dramatic gorges, pass traditional riverside communities and enjoy guided insights that add depth to each experience.
With carefully arranged transport, guided touring and comfortable accommodation throughout, the itinerary is balanced and seamless. It is ideally suited to travellers seeking a comprehensive introduction to China, combining cultural depth with moments of relaxation and scenic cruising.
Tour Highlights
Great Wall of China
Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
Yangtze River
Three Gorges Dam
Shanghai

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Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Beijing

Arrive in China’s capital and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to settle in and begin your experience of this historic city.
Day 2 Beijing Exploration

Begin your exploration with a visit to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Continue to the Summer Palace, a serene retreat showcasing classical Chinese garden design.
Day 3 Great Wall Experience

Travel outside the city to walk along the Great Wall, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Return to Beijing with time to relax or explore further.
Day 4 Beijing to Xi’an
Travel to Xi’an, an ancient capital rich in history. On arrival, enjoy an introduction to the city and its cultural significance.
Day 5 Terracotta Warriors

Visit the extraordinary Terracotta Army, a UNESCO-listed site. Later, explore Xi’an’s historic city walls and vibrant local culture.
Day 6 Xi’an to Chongqing

Fly to Chongqing, the gateway to the Yangtze River. Board your river cruise vessel and settle into your cabin as your cruise begins.
Day 7 Yangtze River Cruising

Cruise along the Yangtze, taking in scenic landscapes and riverside life. Enjoy onboard talks and optional excursions.
Day 8 Three Gorges Exploration

Sail through the dramatic Three Gorges, with steep cliffs and misty scenery. Take a smaller boat excursion into a tributary for a closer perspective.
Day 9 Three Gorges Dam & Yichang

Visit the impressive Three Gorges Dam before disembarking. Continue your journey onward to Shanghai.
Day 10 Shanghai Discovery

Explore Shanghai’s highlights, including the Bund and historic districts. Experience the contrast between old and new in this dynamic city.
Day 11 Departure

Your China Imperial Voyage concludes with onward travel arrangements.
Sail Away on Yangtze River Cruise Vessel
Designed for relaxed scenic cruising, your Yangtze River vessel offers a comfortable and well-paced way to experience one of China’s most storied waterways. The atmosphere onboard is calm and unhurried, allowing guests to fully appreciate the ever-changing landscapes as you pass through dramatic gorges and traditional riverside towns.
The experience is well suited to cultural travellers and those seeking a balance between guided exploration and time at leisure. Interiors are functional yet inviting, with spacious public areas and cabins that provide a comfortable retreat between excursions.
Onboard life centres around panoramic viewing, informative talks and relaxed dining, creating a journey that feels both enriching and restorative. It is an easy, well-structured way to experience the Yangtze without compromising on comfort.
Onboard Experience Highlights
- Scenic cruising through the Three Gorges with open viewing decks
- Informative lectures and cultural insights onboard
- Comfortable dining featuring regional Chinese cuisine
- Shore excursions to historical and scenic sites
- Relaxed lounge spaces for panoramic river views
- Optional small boat excursions into narrower tributaries
- Attentive service in a mid-sized guest setting
A gentle and immersive way to experience China’s landscapes, where each bend in the river reveals a new perspective.
Designed Around You
This itinerary can be tailored to suit your travel style, with options to upgrade accommodation, select preferred cabin categories on the Yangtze cruise, or extend your stay in key cities. Private touring, curated experiences and flexible pacing can all be arranged. Flights, transfers and pre or post tour extensions are seamlessly integrated, ensuring a refined and personalised experience throughout.
Cruise Notes
- Fitness Level: Moderate, with walking at historical sites
- Travel Style: Escorted tour with river cruise component
- Best Suited For: Couples, seniors, cultural travellers
- Accommodation: Hotels and Yangtze River cruise cabins
- Customisation: Extensions and upgrades available
- Flights: International and internal flights can be arranged
- Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance recommended
Pricing varies based on travel dates, inclusions and accommodation preferences. Enquire for tailored options.
